For Indicator 1, interpretation of qualitative or range data is important. The threshold census value is 5000, below which a population is deemed at risk. Information indicating the potential extent below 5000 could be valuable; hence we have provided two options below 5000. The option ‘<5,000 by much’ could indicate severe risk for the population. While both options would classify the population as Nc<5000 for calculating the Indicator 1 metric, this information could be used to assess potential imminent risk. Similarly, for populations with a census size greater than 5000, it would be informative to know if the population is just above 5000 or well above 5000.
The last option (a range that includes a population estimate both greater than and less than 5000) will create difficulty in assigning the population to a side for calculating Indicator 1, but such examples do exist. Record this as XX-XX (e.g. 3000-6000). In such instances, downstream analyses will classify the population as greater than and less than in two different calculations and an average metric using both scenarios will be quantified.
Q45 allows users to enter the specific range referred to in any of the options within Q42. While this question is optional, it is highly recommended that it be completed if a clear range is reported.